The Kia Carnival has mostly been known as a large diesel MPV in India. That is about to change. Kia has now confirmed a hybrid version of the Carnival for the Indian market, and the new model is expected to be launched in the coming weeks.
The new version gets a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor. It will be sold alongside the existing diesel Carnival, giving buyers another option in the premium MPV segment.
The petrol engine develops 180hp and 265Nm. The electric motor produces 73.4hp and 304Nm.
The electric motor is stronger than the unit used in the Sorento Hybrid. It makes 8.4hp and 40Nm more than the Sorento’s motor.
Kia has not shared the combined output of the complete hybrid system yet. The transmission is expected to be a six-speed torque-converter automatic, similar to the Sorento Hybrid.
The Carnival will still be available with its 2.2-litre diesel engine. This motor makes 190hp and 441Nm and is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
The hybrid version should appeal to buyers who want a petrol-based powertrain in a large luxury MPV.
There are no major design changes expected for the hybrid version. Kia is likely to use the same premium cabin seen in the diesel Carnival. Some of its key equipment includes:
Safety equipment is also extensive. The Carnival gets eight airbags, Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera and disc brakes on all four wheels.
The current Carnival is sold in India only in the fully loaded Limousine Plus trim. It is priced at around Rs 59.65 lakh (ex-showroom).
Kia has not announced the hybrid’s price yet. It could cost more than the diesel version, especially considering the additional hybrid hardware. The final figure should be revealed closer to its launch.
The Carnival Hybrid is part of Kia India’s larger electrification plan. The company has announced plans for several electrified models in India, including hybrid versions of other popular cars.
The Sorento Hybrid has already joined the range, and the Carnival will be the next major hybrid addition. Kia is also expected to introduce hybrid technology on models such as the Sonet, Carens Clavis and Seltos over the next few years.
